Rachelle Duffy, from the Little Big Events who is organising the inaugural one day event, says, “Since we pioneered the flat white in the 1990s, the New Zealand coffee industry is as strong as ever. Coffee has become more than just a morning ritual, it’s become a multi-million dollar industry around the world and New Zealanders now consume an average of 3.7 kilograms of coffee beans per person annually, higher than our Australian and UK cousins.”

Kicking off at 10am, Saturday 29th July, local coffee brands will be serving up their finest artisan coffee with free tastings throughout the day. Visitors can expect to try new blends and styles from boutique roasters plus learn the latest tips from experts on how to perfect your brew at home.

“We are also bringing together some of New Zealand’s best industry professionals in a live barista competition on the day where they will be judged on speed, taste and technical expertise. Plus there will be demonstrations from local experts including lessons in latte art so you can create your own milky masterpiece at home,” explains Rachelle Duffy.

For those who aren’t the most dedicated coffee addicts, there will be a pop-up ‘Tea Bar’ with a range of artisan New Zealand tea brands to sample and to set the festival mood, plus there will live music throughout the day from Wellington-based New Orleans style brass band, Richter City Rebels.

“If you’re a cafe, coffee brand, barista or discerning coffee lover, you won’t want to miss this new event. Tickets are now on sale for $15 per person with a limited number of early-bird tickets receiving a limited edition ceramic festival cup, in collaboration with George & Co,” says Rachelle Duffy.

Details:

What: Tauranga Coffee Festival

Highlights:

– Free tastings from New Zealand’s best coffee brands

– All-day Espresso Martini bar

– Street food lane serving gourmet street food

– Workshops hosted by coffee experts and producers that will educate even the most experienced home barista

Tickets: Early-bird tickets are now available here https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2017/tauranga-coffee-festival/mt-maunganui. All early bird tickets receive a free festival coffee mug designed by local brand George & Co.